Care Sheet for Crustaceans

Average Rating Given To This Care Sheet Is 0 (1=lowest, 5=highest)Last Updated: 06/19/2010

Main Category:

Non-Reptile/Amphibian

Sub Category:

Crustaceans

Care Sheet Submitted By:

Amphibianguy

Years Experience:

Under 1 Year

Species:

Atlantic Ghost Crab

Other Species or Phases this Care Sheet May Cover:

Pacific Ghost Crab

Sexing and Characteristics:

I am not really sure on how to sex a ghost crab. That is something you could figure out or you could ask someone.
It’s characteristics are a color that obtains of mostly white but maybe a little bit of sandy color on the sides. Also the claws are big and sharp. They can run at speed of up to 10 MPH. They do run side to side though. They have black eyes which really get your attention during the daytime.

Mostly Active During:

Night

Substrate and Water Needs:

The substrate should be made up of sand. Keep in mind that ghost crabs can dig up to for feet in the sand. Also have a good amount of SALTWATER!!! Make sure they have room to move around in the water. It would be good if you can create a flat surface for the first little bit of the water, preferably 1-3 inches and then create a mini drop off like a ramp that ends at about a little bit more than a foot.

Lighting and UVB:

None is required.

Temperatures and Humidity:

During the day temperatures should range from 80F-90F. During the night temperatures should range from 68F-78F.
You should mist about every 5 days. Also mist the sand on where the waves would come on the beach daily.

Heating and Equipment:

No heating is required.
You will need a filter for the water. You can also use a tank divider to split land and water. I would prefer not though.

Caging Provided:

For one I would use a 79 gallon (16"W 48"H 24"L). Then or two I would go with a 90 gallon.

Diet:

Omnivorous

Description of Diet:

Other Crabs
Insects
Clams
Vegetation

Supplements, Nutrition and Usage:

None is required.

Maintenance:

Clean out poop when seen.

Some Words on this Species:

Handling this crab can be very dangerous. Unlike some other crabs it has a shorter carapace and holding it on the back of the back leg they can bring their claw under it body and pinch your hand. If it does pinch you put it in the water and it should let go. You can try to ind a way to hold it though. If you are successful please post on the crustacean forum to let other people know. Have fun with your Atlantic Ghost Crab!

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